This Document Contains Chapters 21 to 22 CHAPTER 21 COLLECTIVE BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL MOVEMENTS ESSAY QUESTIONS 1. What are the social implications of mobile communications as suggested by Howard Rheingold? Answer: Howard Rheingold suggests that mobile communications transform social structures by creating new forms of interaction and community. They enable people to maintain connections across distances, influence social norms, and organize and mobilize groups in innovative ways. 2. Explain what collective behavior is, and what aspects of collective behavior might interest a sociologist. Answer: Collective behavior refers to spontaneous and unstructured actions by a group in response to shared situations or emotions. Sociologists are interested in how group dynamics, emerging norms, roles within groups, and the impact of collective actions on social change and stability. 3. Discuss the contribution to the study of collective behavior made by Ralph Turner and Lewis Killian’s emergent-norm perspective. Answer: Turner and Killian’s emergent-norm perspective highlights that collective behavior arises from the creation of new norms in situations where traditional norms are unclear. This perspective shows how individuals in a group generate and adapt norms to guide behavior, leading to spontaneous social actions. 4. Summarize Neil Smelser’s value-added perspective. Answer: Neil Smelser’s value-added perspective outlines that collective behavior emerges through stages that add value to the process: social strain, availability of solutions, breakdown of social control, formation of collective responses, and mobilization of participants. It helps explain how various factors contribute to collective behavior. 5. In what way(s) is the assembling perspective related to the interactionist perspective? Answer: The assembling perspective relates to the interactionist perspective in emphasizing the role of social interactions in shaping collective behavior. Both perspectives focus on how interactions within groups influence the development of social norms and behaviors, highlighting the importance of interpersonal dynamics in understanding collective actions. 6. Use the emergent norm and assembling perspective to analyze the behavior of people in crowds. Answer: The emergent-norm perspective suggests that in crowds, individuals create and adapt new norms to guide behavior as traditional norms become unclear. The assembling perspective highlights how people come together and interact to form groups, influencing how collective norms and behaviors emerge. Both perspectives emphasize the fluid and spontaneous nature of crowd behavior, shaped by ongoing interactions and evolving social norms. 7. What are the methodological challenges of disaster research? Answer: Methodological challenges in disaster research include obtaining accurate data due to the chaos and destruction, dealing with ethical concerns regarding vulnerable populations, ensuring the reliability and validity of research findings in rapidly changing situations, and managing logistical difficulties in accessing affected areas and gathering timely information. 8. Use the collapse of the World Trade Center in 2001 or Hurricane Katrina to discuss the sociological dimensions of disaster behavior. Answer: The collapse of the World Trade Center in 2001 and Hurricane Katrina both reveal sociological dimensions of disaster behavior, such as the role of social networks in aiding recovery, the impact of pre-existing social inequalities on vulnerability and response, and the formation of new social norms and behaviors in the aftermath. Both events showed how collective behavior, community support, and governmental response are crucial in managing disaster situations. 9. Distinguish between fads and fashions, between panics and crazes, and between a “public” and “public opinion.” Answer: • Fads are short-lived trends with sudden popularity, while fashions have a longer duration and more widespread acceptance. • Panics are sudden, irrational responses to perceived threats, whereas crazes are intense, but less immediate, enthusiasms for particular activities or products. • public is a group of individuals with shared interests or concerns, whereas public opinion refers to the collective attitudes and beliefs held by the public on specific issues. 10. Using contemporary life, identify examples of fads, fashions, panics, and crazes. Answer: • Fads: TikTok challenges or viral internet memes that quickly gain and lose popularity. • Fashions: Trends in clothing styles, like skinny jeans or athleisure, which have a longer-lasting impact. • Panics: The toilet paper shortage during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. • Crazes: The Pokémon Go phenomenon, where people engaged in a widespread but specific enthusiasm for augmented reality gaming. 11. Discuss how email can be used as a means of spreading rumors. Answer: Email can rapidly spread rumors by allowing individuals to share information with large networks quickly. The ease of forwarding and the anonymity of the medium can contribute to the widespread dissemination of unverified or false information, leading to the amplification and reinforcement of rumors. 12. How would the functionalist perspective view rumors? Answer: From a functionalist perspective, rumors are seen as a form of social communication that can fulfill the need for information in uncertain situations. They may help individuals make sense of events, reinforce group cohesion, or highlight social anxieties. However, they can also disrupt social order if they lead to misinformation or panic. 13. What are social movements, and how can they be contrasted to other forms of collective behavior? Answer: Social movements are organized efforts to promote or resist change within a society, often driven by shared goals and ideologies. They differ from other forms of collective behavior, such as crowds or riots, in their sustained and structured efforts to achieve long-term goals, their organized leadership, and their focus on systemic change rather than immediate or spontaneous reactions. 14. What is meant by the term relative deprivation? How does it serve to mobilize discontent? Answer: Relative deprivation refers to the perception of being disadvantaged compared to others, leading to feelings of injustice and frustration. It mobilizes discontent by highlighting disparities between what individuals have and what they believe they deserve or what others have, thereby motivating collective action to address perceived inequalities. 15. What approach to social movements does the resource mobilization perspective take? Answer: The resource mobilization perspective focuses on the importance of resources—such as funding, organizational skills, and leadership—in the development and success of social movements. It argues that the ability of social movements to achieve their goals depends on their capacity to mobilize and effectively use these resources, rather than on the grievances or ideologies alone. 16. How have women been incorporated into social movements? Answer: Women have been incorporated into social movements as both leaders and active participants, advocating for gender equality and broader social change. Their involvement has led to the formation of women-centric movements and has influenced broader social movements to address gender-specific issues and ensure more inclusive agendas. 17. Apply Marx’s concept of false consciousness to resource mobilization. Answer: Marx’s concept of false consciousness refers to a situation where individuals are unaware of their true class interests and are misled by dominant ideologies. In the context of resource mobilization, this concept suggests that some social movements may fail to address or even reinforce systemic inequalities because they do not fully recognize or challenge the underlying class structures affecting resource distribution and mobilization. 18. What is meant by “new social movements”? Answer: "New social movements" refer to contemporary social movements that focus on a range of issues beyond traditional class struggles, such as identity, environmental concerns, human rights, and cultural change. These movements often emphasize grassroots organizing, direct action, and the pursuit of social justice, reflecting shifts in societal values and priorities. 19. How does the new social movement approach apply to the organizing efforts described in rural India? Answer: The new social movement approach applies to rural India by highlighting how local organizing efforts address issues such as land rights, environmental justice, and empowerment of marginalized communities. These movements often utilize modern communication tools and emphasize cultural and identity-based activism, reflecting broader global trends in advocating for social change. 20. Explain the relationship between communication technology and collective behavior. Answer: Communication technology facilitates collective behavior by enabling rapid dissemination of information, coordination of actions, and mobilization of groups. It allows for the creation and spread of shared messages and organizational tools, which can enhance the effectiveness and reach of collective actions, such as protests, campaigns, and social movements. 21. What is the relationship between communication technology and social movements? Answer: Communication technology enhances social movements by facilitating rapid information dissemination, coordination, and mobilization. It allows activists to organize, share messages, and build networks more efficiently, thereby increasing the visibility and impact of their causes. 22. Discuss communication technology, social movements, and ideological postings. Answer: Communication technology supports social movements by enabling the creation and spread of ideological postings, such as blogs, social media updates, and online petitions. These postings help articulate movement goals, mobilize support, and engage in public discourse, shaping perceptions and influencing public opinion. 23. Identify the issues surrounding disability rights. Answer: Issues surrounding disability rights include accessibility, discrimination, social inclusion, employment opportunities, and the adequacy of support services. Advocates work to address barriers in physical environments, legal systems, and societal attitudes to ensure equal opportunities and treatment for individuals with disabilities. 24. What is the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), and what is its significance? Answer: The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) is a landmark U.S. law enacted in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas, including employment, public accommodations, and transportation. Its significance lies in its role in promoting accessibility, equal rights, and opportunities for people with disabilities, contributing to greater social inclusion and fairness. 25. Define the term visit ability, and describe its relationship to the disability rights movement. Answer: Visit ability refers to design features in housing that allow people with mobility impairments to visit and navigate homes, such as no-step entries and wide doorways. It is related to the disability rights movement as it advocates for more inclusive and accessible living environments, supporting broader efforts to remove physical barriers and enhance social participation for people with disabilities. CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS 1. Describe how the 2003 invasion of Iraq brought about social movements through relative deprivation and resource mobilization in both the United States and Iraq. Answer: The 2003 invasion of Iraq spurred social movements by highlighting relative deprivation in both countries. In the U.S., anti-war movements emerged as people felt deprived of transparent government action and diplomatic solutions. In Iraq, resistance movements formed as people experienced deprivation due to the invasion's impact on their livelihoods and sovereignty. Resource mobilization in both contexts involved organizing protests, lobbying, and leveraging media to advocate for their positions. 2. Discuss how the Internet is used to create rumors which may be both authenticated and unauthenticated in nature. Give examples to support your answer. Answer: The Internet facilitates the creation of both authenticated and unauthenticated rumors by allowing rapid dissemination of information. Authenticated rumors may be based on verified sources but spread quickly, such as news of political scandals. Unauthenticated rumors often lack verification and may spread misinformation, like false claims about celebrities or conspiracy theories. Examples include the viral spread of unverified claims about public figures or false news stories that gain traction on social media platforms. 3. Describe how certain fads or fashions might actually become common-place for society in which they eventually evolve into a generally accepted social norm. Answer: Certain fads or fashions, initially popular for their novelty, can become commonplace as they are adopted by a broader segment of society and integrated into daily life. For example, wearing casual attire like jeans in professional settings was once a fashion trend but has evolved into a widely accepted norm in many workplaces. Over time, these trends become ingrained in societal practices and expectations, reflecting shifts in cultural attitudes and behaviors. 4. Identify how the 2003 Iraq war created certain panics and crazes among people in the United States and across the world. Answer: The 2003 Iraq war triggered panics such as concerns over potential terrorist attacks and the security of national borders. Crazes included heightened interest in military-related products and media coverage of the conflict. The war fueled fears of WMDs (Weapons of Mass Destruction) and led to widespread media coverage and public debates, reflecting both immediate anxieties and prolonged interest in the war's implications. 5. Discuss how the recent PATRIOT Act may advance various forms of collective behavior among groups within the United States. Answer: The PATRIOT Act, enacted after 9/11, may advance various forms of collective behavior by influencing how groups respond to issues of national security and civil liberties. It has prompted collective actions such as protests and advocacy for privacy rights, as well as increased governmental surveillance activities. The Act has spurred debates and mobilization among civil rights organizations, legal experts, and concerned citizens regarding the balance between security and individual freedoms. TOPICS AND SOURCES FOR STUDENT RESEARCH AND ASSIGNMENTS 1. Successful Protest: See R. Scott Frey et al., “Characteristics of Successful American Protest Groups: Another Look at Gamson’s ‘Strategy of Social Protest,’” American Journal of Sociology 98 (September 1993): 368–387. 2. Labor Activism in South Korea: The history of Korean labor activism is extremely interesting, and the author of this recent book is one of the most respected authorities on the subject. Hagen Koo. Korean Workers: The Culture and Politics of Class Formation. Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press, 2001. 3. Vegetarianism as a Social Movement: Have students study a social movement outside the usual range addressed in introductory sociology courses. Donna Maurer. Vegetarianism: Movement or Moment? Philadelphia, PA: Temple University Press, 2002. 4. Networking between Movements: See William K. Carroll and R.S. Ratner, “Master Framing and Cross-Movement Networking in Contemporary Social Movements,” Sociological Quarterly 37 (Fall 1996): 601–625. 5. Anti-Immigrant Social Movements: See Ivan Light, “Nationalism and Anti-Immigrant Movements,” Society 33 (2)(1996): 58–63. 6. Disasters and Social Roles: See Gary A. Kreps and Susan Lonegren Bosworth, “Disaster Organizing, and Role Enactment: A Structural Approach,” American Journal of Sociology 99 (September 1993): 428–463. 7. Panics: See Alan Blum, “Panic and Fear: On the Phenomenology of Desperation,” Sociological Quarterly 37 (4) (1996): 673–698. VIDEO RESOURCE SECTION Ballad of Greenwich Village (Filmakers Library, 2006, 70m). Documents the various social movements with origins in Greenwich Village, New York. Numerous writers and artists are featured. Mass Media in Society (28m, McGraw-Hill). The world is quickly becoming saturated with information, entertainment, and advertisements. In this program, academic and industry experts examine the globalization of information exchange, the way in which it has altered the social distance between nations and individuals, and the future of mass media. The enthusiasm for interactive communication is growing, spurred on by the desire for news and entertainment tailored and delivered on demand and the possibilities of one-to-one marketing. Is the concept of mass media on the verge of extinction? The Men’s Movement (Films for the Humanities and Sciences, 2000, 30m). This program profiles the new “men’s movement,” explores the various reasons why men become involved, and examines the implications for men and women in the twenty-first century. Social Action (Insight Media, 2002, 30m). This video examines various forms of collective behavior, including social movements. It also asks how collective behavior is related to the power structure of society. Space Invaders: Strategies for Life in a Crowd (Films for the Humanities and Sciences, 1996, 25m). The need for personal space is explored through the avoidance behaviors people employ to maintain a perceived distance from others. These might include: falling into a “middle-distance stare” in a crowded subway; the use of a proxy, like a jacket on a barstool, to reserve a place; the attitudes of drivers toward other cars on the road, which can lead to road rage; and the unconscious cooperation displayed in sharing public places. The phenomenon of crowd density, in which the rules of personal space are willingly suspended, is also examined. ADDITIONAL READINGS Adam, Barry D., Jan Willem Duyvendak, and Andre Krouwel, eds. 1999. The Global Emergence of Gay and Lesbian Politics: National Imprints of a Worldwide Movement. Philadelphia: Temple University Press. The editors offer portraits of gay and lesbian organizations in 16 nations, including Australia, Brazil, France, Great Britain, Japan, Romania, and Spain. DaCosta, Kimberly McClain. 2007. Making Multiracials. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press. Analyzes a recent social movement—that which resulted in the mainstream recognition of multiracial Americans. Fine, Gary Alan, and Patricia A. Turner. 2001. Whispers on the Color Line: Rumor and Race in America. Berkeley: University of California Press. Two sociologists consider how and why certain rumors take root in the African-American community. Horowitz, Donald L. 2000. Mob Rule: The Deadly Ethnic Riot. Berkeley: University of California Press. A cross-cultural look at racial, ethnic, and religious riots throughout history. Jasper, James. 1997. The Art of Moral Protest: Culture, Biography, and Creativity in Social Movements. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. An analysis of how social movements, ranging from nineteenth-century boycotts to contemporary anti-nuclear, animal rights, and environmental movements, develop and the impact they have on participants and society as a whole. Lofland, John. 1996. Social Movement Organizations: Guide to Research on Insurgent Realities. New York: Aldine de Gruyter. A noted sociologist offers a handbook on studying social movement organizations. Miller, David L. 2000. Introduction to Collective Behavior and Collective Actions. 2nd ed. Prospect Heights, IL: Waveland. The author, associated with the assembling perspective, covers all the major theoretical approaches of the field. He examines rumors, riots, social movements, immigrations, and other forms of collective behavior. Regan, Tom. 2000. Defending Animal Rights. Urbana: University of Illinois Press. A philosopher and participant in the animal rights movement reflects on the movement and compares it to other protests. Warner, Michael. 1999. The Trouble with Normal: Sex, Politics, and the Ethics of Queer Life. New York: The Free Press. A critical examination of the contemporary gay rights movement and its emphasis on the recognition of gay marriages. JOURNALS Among those journals that focus on collective behavior and social movements are the International Journal of Mass Emergencies and Disasters (founded in 1983), the Journal of Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual Identity (1996), the Journal of Popular Culture (1967), mobilization (1996), and Public Opinion Quarterly (1937). CHAPTER 22 SOCIAL CHANGE IN THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY ESSAY QUESTIONS 1. Distinguish between evolutionary and functionalist theories of social change. Answer: • Evolutionary Theory: Suggests that social change occurs in a linear, progressive manner. Societies evolve from simple to complex forms through stages of development, much like biological evolution. This theory emphasizes the gradual transformation and improvement of social structures over time. • Functionalist Theory: Views social change as a response to disruptions in society’s equilibrium. Functionalists believe that changes occur to restore balance and maintain social stability. Social change is seen as a process where new structures or institutions emerge to meet the needs of society and contribute to its overall stability. 2. How did Talcott Parsons view social change? Answer: Talcott Parsons viewed social change as a process of adaptation and adjustment that maintains the social system’s equilibrium. He believed that change occurs when there are disruptions or new demands placed on society. According to Parsons, social change is a gradual and adaptive process where new social structures evolve to maintain societal stability and functionality. 3. What are the basic differences between the functionalist and conflict views of social change? Answer: • Functionalist View: Emphasizes that social change is a response to disruptions that threaten social stability. It views change as a process that helps to restore balance and maintain societal equilibrium. Functionalists see social change as evolutionary and adaptive. • Conflict View: Argues that social change arises from conflicts between different social groups with competing interests. Conflict theorists believe that change is driven by power struggles and inequalities, with those in power attempting to maintain their position while those disadvantaged seek to challenge and alter the status quo. 4. How did Karl Marx view social change? Answer: Karl Marx viewed social change as driven by class struggle and economic factors. He believed that change results from conflicts between the bourgeoisie (capitalist class) and the proletariat (working class). Marx argued that social change occurs through revolutionary upheaval, leading to the replacement of one economic system with another, ultimately culminating in the establishment of a classless, communist society. 5. Discuss Thorstein Veblen’s concept of “vested interests” as it relates to social change. Answer: Thorstein Veblen’s concept of "vested interests" refers to the entrenched interests of individuals or groups who benefit from maintaining the current social and economic system. These vested interests resist social change because it threatens their power, status, and economic advantage. Veblen argued that social change is often obstructed by these interests, which seek to preserve the existing order and prevent the emergence of new social or economic arrangements. 6. Discuss the factors that lead to resistance to social change. Answer: • Economic Interests: Groups or individuals with a vested interest in maintaining the status quo may resist change because it threatens their economic benefits. • Cultural Values: Deeply held cultural or religious beliefs may conflict with proposed changes, leading to resistance. • Fear of Uncertainty: Change often brings uncertainty, and people may resist to avoid the risks associated with the unknown. • Lack of Awareness: Resistance can stem from a lack of understanding or information about the benefits of change. • Institutional Inertia: Established institutions may resist change due to their existing structures, processes, and power dynamics. 7. What are the usual targets of the NIMBY phenomenon? What reason is used to justify the NIMBY phenomenon? Answer: • Targets: The NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) phenomenon typically targets local development projects such as landfills, industrial facilities, or housing developments that residents do not want near their homes. • Justification: Residents often justify NIMBY opposition by citing concerns about potential negative impacts on property values, health, safety, and quality of life. They may support the project in theory but oppose its proximity to their own neighborhood. 8. Apply the concept of culture lag to resistance to social change. Answer: Culture Lag: The concept of culture lag, introduced by sociologist William Fielding Ogburn, refers to the delay between technological advancements and the corresponding changes in cultural norms and values. Resistance to social change can occur when cultural beliefs and practices have not yet adapted to new technologies or innovations. For example, societal attitudes toward issues like digital privacy or genetic engineering may lag behind the rapid technological developments in these areas, causing resistance. 9. What is meant by the “Luddites” and how is that term being used today? Answer: Luddites: Originally, Luddites were 19th-century English textile workers who protested against industrial machinery by destroying equipment, fearing it would replace their jobs. Today, the term "Luddite" is used more broadly to describe individuals or groups who resist or are skeptical of technological advancements and modern innovations due to concerns about their impact on society or personal life. 10. How has new technology led to the invasion of personal privacy? Answer: • Surveillance: New technologies, such as smartphones, social media, and data analytics, enable extensive monitoring and collection of personal information by corporations, governments, and other entities. • Data Sharing: Increased data sharing and storage practices raise concerns about unauthorized access and misuse of personal information. • Tracking: Technologies like GPS and online tracking cookies allow for detailed tracking of individuals' locations, activities, and behaviors, often without their explicit consent or awareness. 11. How are the issues of privacy and censorship related to the concept of culture lag? Answer: • Privacy and Culture Lag: As technology advances, the capabilities for data collection and surveillance outpace the development of social norms and legal protections, leading to privacy concerns. The concept of culture lag explains how cultural and legal frameworks lag behind technological advancements, resulting in inadequate measures to protect personal privacy. • Censorship and Culture Lag: Similarly, as new forms of communication emerge, such as the internet and social media, existing censorship laws and practices may be slow to adapt, leading to debates and conflicts over freedom of expression and information control. 12. What is the functionalist view of new technology and the invasion of privacy? Answer: Functionalist View: Functionalists view new technology as a tool for improving efficiency and addressing social needs. However, they also recognize that technological advancements can disrupt social equilibrium, including privacy. From this perspective, privacy concerns are addressed through adaptations and reforms aimed at maintaining social stability and integrating technology into existing social structures. 13. Compare and contrast the functionalist and conflict views of new technology and its relationship to privacy and censorship. Answer: • Functionalist View: Sees new technology as beneficial for social integration and problem-solving. It views privacy and censorship issues as challenges that can be managed through adjustments to maintain social order and harmony. • Conflict View: Argues that new technology often exacerbates power imbalances and inequality. It suggests that those in power may use technology to invade privacy and enforce censorship to control information and maintain their dominance. This perspective emphasizes the conflict between different social groups over the control and use of technology. 14. Who are the “urban Amish”? Answer: Urban Amish: The term "urban Amish" refers to individuals or groups who deliberately avoid modern technology and digital communication, opting instead for simpler, more traditional lifestyles. This term is used to describe people living in urban environments who choose to limit their use of modern technologies for personal or philosophical reasons, similar to the way the Amish avoid certain modern conveniences. 15. How has Nicholas Negroponte’s One Laptop Per Child initiative affected the computer technology and telecommunications industries? Answer: Impact: Nicholas Negroponte’s One Laptop Per Child (OLPC) initiative aimed to provide affordable, durable laptops to children in developing countries. This initiative has influenced the computer technology industry by driving innovations in low-cost, rugged computing devices and increasing focus on educational technology. It has also impacted the telecommunications industry by highlighting the need for accessible internet and connectivity solutions in underserved regions. 16. What are the social implications of genetic engineering? Answer: Social Implications: Genetic engineering raises ethical and social issues, including concerns about human genetic modification, potential inequalities in access to genetic technologies, and long-term impacts on genetic diversity. It also poses questions about consent, privacy, and the potential for eugenics or discrimination based on genetic traits. 17. What is the Human Genome Project and what is its significance? Answer: Human Genome Project: The Human Genome Project was an international research initiative that mapped and sequenced the entire human genome. Its significance lies in its contributions to understanding the genetic basis of human diseases, advancing personalized medicine, and providing a comprehensive reference for future genetic research and biomedical applications. 18. Describe the concept of a transnational. Describe the social processes through which transnationals have emerged. Answer: • Transnational: A transnational is an individual, organization, or corporation that operates across multiple countries and is not confined to any single national context. • Emergence: Transnationals have emerged through globalization processes, such as international trade, investment, and migration. The expansion of global markets, advancements in communication and transportation, and the growth of multinational corporations have facilitated the rise of transnational entities. 19. How is the emergence of transnationals related to globalization? Answer: Relation to Globalization: The emergence of transnationals is a direct result of globalization, which involves the increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of countries. Globalization enables transnationals to operate across borders, access international markets, and influence global economic, political, and cultural landscapes. 20. Describe the policy issues related to the emergence of transnationals. Answer: Policy Issues: The rise of transnationals raises several policy issues, including regulatory challenges in maintaining national sovereignty, labor rights and standards across different countries, tax avoidance and economic impact on local economies, and environmental concerns. Policymakers must address these issues to ensure fair practices, protect workers, and manage the global impact of transnational activities. CRITICAL THINKING QUESTIONS 1. Describe how certain social institutions have adapted to social change consistent with Parsons’s equilibrium model, and identify how culture lag might have impeded the evolutionary changes occurring in some social institutions. Answer: • Adaptation Consistent with Parsons’s Equilibrium Model: Institutions like education and healthcare have adapted to social changes by integrating new technologies and practices to maintain social stability. For example, schools have incorporated digital learning tools to meet the needs of a technologically advanced society. • Culture Lag: Culture lag can impede these changes when societal values and norms have not yet adjusted to technological advancements. For instance, resistance to online learning platforms in education due to traditional values can delay the integration of new methods. 2. Discuss why airlines in the United States may have a vested interest in resisting social change to combat terrorism since September 11, 2001. Answer: Vested Interest: Airlines may resist changes such as increased security measures or changes in passenger screening procedures due to concerns about operational costs, passenger inconvenience, and potential impacts on customer satisfaction and travel volume. They might prefer to maintain existing practices that are less disruptive despite the evolving threat of terrorism. 3. Discuss how passage of the USA PATRIOT Act, which relaxed legal checks on surveillance by law enforcement, has enabled the use of technology for certain social control measures. Answer: USA PATRIOT Act and Social Control: The USA PATRIOT Act expanded surveillance capabilities by reducing legal restrictions on monitoring communications and accessing personal data. This has allowed law enforcement to use technology more extensively for tracking, data collection, and preventive measures against terrorism, raising concerns about privacy and civil liberties. 4. Discuss the consequences of the One Laptop Per Child initiative in terms of both the actual XO computer and wider effects on related industries. Answer: • XO Computer: The XO laptop was designed to be an affordable, durable device for children in developing countries, promoting educational access. Its actual impact includes increased access to technology and education for underprivileged children. • Wider Effects: The initiative influenced the development of low-cost computing solutions and educational technology, pushing major tech companies to consider affordability and durability in their product designs. It also highlighted the need for broader access to technology and internet connectivity. 5. Discuss how the recent debate over drilling in the Arctic wildlife reserve area is likely to create controversy similar to that of the 1960s. Do you think as a society we have learned from our past indiscretions concerning environmental issues? Answer: • Controversy: The debate over drilling in the Arctic wildlife reserve mirrors past environmental controversies, such as those from the 1960s regarding pollution and conservation. It involves conflicting interests between economic development and environmental protection, leading to heated public and political debates. • Learning from the Past: While society has made strides in environmental awareness and regulation, past indiscretions still influence current debates. The ongoing struggle between economic interests and environmental preservation suggests that while we have learned some lessons, achieving a balance remains challenging. TOPICS AND SOURCES FOR STUDENT RESEARCH AND ASSIGNMENTS 1. Herbert Spencer: See Valerie A. Haines, “Is Spencer’s Theory an Evolutionary Theory?” American Journal of Sociology 93 (March 1988): 1200–1223. 2. Social Change Theory: See the American Sociological Association presidential address by Maureen T. Hallinan, “The Sociological Study of Social Change,” American Sociological Review 62 (February 1997): 1–11. 3. Social Change—A Classic Look: A community undergoes radical change in its basic economic institutions. See W. F. Cottrell, “Death by Dieselization: A Case Study in the Reaction to Technological Change,” American Sociological Review 16 (June 1951): 358–365. 4. Diffusion of Technology: See Claude S. Fischer and Glenn R. Carroll, “Telephone and Automobile Diffusion in the United States, 1902–1937,” American Journal of Sociology 93 (March 1988): 1153–1178. 5. DNA Used to Record Ethnic Dimensions Centuries Ago: See Boyce Rensberger, “The Melting Pot under a Microscope,” Washington Post National Weekly Edition (March 15, 1993): 38. 6. Scientific Change: See Stephen Fuchs, “A Sociological Theory of Scientific Change,” Social Forces 71 (June 1993): 933–953. 7. Surgery and Virtual Reality: See John C. Briggs, “The Promise of Virtual Reality,” The Futurist 30 (September–October 1995): 13–18. 8. Disasters and Social Roles: See Gary A. Kreps and Susan Lonegren Bosworth, “Disaster Organizing, and Role Enactment: A Structural Approach,” American Journal of Sociology 99 (September 1993):428–463. 9. Anti-Immigrant Social Movements: See Ivan Light, “Nationalism and Anti-Immigrant Movements,” Society 33 (2)(1996): 58–63. VIDEO RESOURCE SECTION Baked Alaska (Bullfrog Films, 2003, 26m). This film addresses global warming in Alaska, and looks at the political issues surrounding it. Bioterror (Insight Media, 2001, 60m). This video examines governmental planning and their work toward development of biological weapons in both the United States and foreign nations. Cities: Energy, Environment, Natural Resources (Insight Media, 2000, 50m). This video addresses the effects of population growth patterns on the environment. It includes examinations of urban sprawl, water quality, and mass transportation. Climate Change: Science vs. Politics (McGraw-Hill, 1996, 25m). This program explores the dynamic interplay between science and policymaking. Though the world community has come to recognize the threat of global warming, the economic interests of each country have thwarted the development of a unified strategy. In Europe, environmental groups have despaired of relying on governments to take action. Instead, they lobby the banks to withhold financing from industries that contribute to the greenhouse effect. Deconstructing Supper: Is Your Food Safe? (Bullfrog Films, 2002, 48m). This film, hosted by a chef, explores the controversies surrounding genetically modified foods. The Internet: Portal to Everywhere (Films for the Humanities and Sciences, 2001, 45m). The Internet is quickly dissolving the boundaries of time zones, geography, and even language. This program, hosted by CNBC’s Tyler Mathisen, brings together visionaries and commentators to spotlight applications in vogue around the world. Is Cloning Ethical? (Insight Media 2002, 25m). This video examines the ethical debate over cloning. The debate provides for discussion of the sociological significance of cloning. Mass Media in Society (Films for the Humanities and Sciences, 2001, 28m). In this program, academic and industry experts examine the globalization of information exchange, the way in which it has altered the social distance between nations and individuals, and the future of mass media. Once Upon a Time in Cyberville (51m, McGraw-Hill). This program takes a provocative look at the power and role of technology in our lives today, as well as what role it may play in the future. PCs, email, video games, interactive TV, electronic shopping malls, and the Internet are all an important part of “Cyberville.” But are these advances moving us further away from the real world outside our doors? Is technology and “technolust” causing us to lose sight of who we are and where we came from? Instead of dealing with our growing societal problems, are we focusing on a future “cyber-utopia”? The program explores advances in technology across a wide spectrum, as well as the implications for our society, economy, and culture. Satellites in the Sky (1993, color, 26m). Traces the history of news-gathering from the 1890s through the present. Explores the social impact of these changes on social and political decisions. Selling the Future (52m, McGraw-Hill). This program looks at the electronic, technological, and conceptual world growing around us. With the ever-accelerating speed of work, a technological environment that replaces the office workspace with cyberspace, and interpersonal relationships with virtual community, what does it mean to be a human? Social Change (1991, color, 30m). Shows the inevitability of social change and presents social change as an historical process, as well as an ongoing process affecting our lives now and in the future. Examines social changes occurring on different levels of social organization. Welcome to the Jungle (52m, color, McGraw-Hill). This program explores how new technologies are poised to drastically transform the way we live and work. But will this exciting new world be available just to a chosen few? Who will be the winners and losers in the coming cyberworld, and what will be the role of the Internet? Whatever Happened to Privacy (Films for the Humanities and Sciences, 2003, 23m). Americans have grown used to being watched at ATMs, in lobbies, and even while driving. In this program, ABC News anchor Ted Koppel and correspondent John Donovan survey the increasing intrusion—real or perceived—of technology into Americans’ privacy. ADDITIONAL READINGS Castells, Manuel. 2001. The Internet Galaxy: Reflections on the Internet, Business, and Society. New York: Oxford University Press. Sociologist Castells explains how the Internet came into being, and shows how it is affecting every aspect of our lives, from politics and the media to our work and social relations. French, Hillary. 2000. Vanishing Borders: Protecting the Planet in the Age of Globalization. New York: W.W. Norton. An argument for integrating ecological considerations into existing international agreements and the developing rules of global commerce. Garfinkel, Simon, and Deborah Russell. 2000. Database Nation: The Death of Privacy in the 21st Century. Sebastapol, CA: O’Reilly and Associates. A critical look at the invasion of people’s privacy in cyberspace. Katz, James E., and Ronald E. Rice. 2002. Social Consequences of Internet Use: Access, Involvement, and Interaction. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press. This book adjudicates the controversies about the social implications of the Internet. Lewis, Michael. 2001. Next: The Future Just Happened. New York: W.W. Norton. A journalist’s optimistic look at the Internet’s impact on social change and e-commerce. Rothman, Sheila M., and David J. Rothman. 2003. The Pursuit of Perfection. New York: Pantheon Books. Cosmetic medical procedures are frighteningly common in the U.S. today. This book shows how it all got started, with a historical account starting in the 1920s and 1930s. Warschauer, Mark. 2003. Technology and Social Inclusion: Rethinking the Digital Divide. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press. Warschauer gives a detailed exploration of the relationship between technology and social stratification. JOURNALS Among those journals that focus on issues of social change and technology are The Futurist (founded in 1967), Information, Communication and Society (1998), Internet Underground (1996), Issues in Science and Technology (1984), Privacy and American Business (1993), Sociological Theory (1983), Technological Forecasting and Social Change (1969), and Technology Review (1899). Solution Manual for Sociology Richard T. Schaefer 9780078026669
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